Researchers tracked ransomware payments over two years to identify patterns and key findings. South Koreans are disproportionately impacted, with $2.5 million of ransomware payments made within the country. The study also found that most ransomware operators use a Russian Bitcoin exchange, BTC-E, to convert bitcoin to fiat currencies.
A new University of Bath project seeks to reduce injection errors, aiming for a 35% decrease in mistakes. The research, led by Dr Matthew Jones, will test modified guidance on nurses to improve patient safety and potentially save NHS time and money.
A Northwestern University-led team has developed a new way to manufacture proteins outside of a cell, which could have important implications for therapeutics and biomaterials. The team successfully produced high yields of proteins with non-canonical amino acids, opening up possibilities for decentralized manufacturing and distribution...
A review suggests that exposure to thyroid-hormone-disrupting toxins in pregnant women and children may lead to increased incidence of brain development disorders. This has significant implications for child health and underscores the need for targeted public health strategies.
A new antimalarial drug delivery system using MCM-41 has been developed, demonstrating a long release time of one week or longer and increasing treatment efficiency by 20 and 240 times compared to traditional medications.
Researchers discover microRNA molecule miR-940 that alters bone structure in late-stage prostate cancer. The molecule promotes osteoblastic lesions, which can cause severe pain and structural weakness.
Scientists have successfully created a simplified version of teixobactin, a natural antibiotic discovered in 2015, which has been shown to kill superbug-causing bacteria. The synthetic form was used to treat a bacterial infection in mice, demonstrating its potential as a new class of antibiotic drug.
Tropical Cyclone Nora strengthened into a hurricane as observed by NASA satellite imagery, with an eye forming and powerful thunderstorms wrapping around it. The cyclone is forecast to continue intensifying and making landfall in southwestern Queensland on March 27.
A Drexel University study found that mayors' political beliefs influence their opinions on civic policies reducing health disparities. Approximately 8% of socially conservative mayors believed city policies could have a major impact, compared to 29% of liberal mayors.
A genetic mutation in the MPP gene can lead to impaired functioning of proteins needed for mitochondrial protein import, resulting in accumulation of immature proteins and interference with mitochondrial functions. This study identified the molecular consequences of this mutation, providing a fundamental explanation for the disease.
Research investigates the link between chronic periodontitis and age-related macular degeneration, finding a common oral pathobiont, Porphyromonas gingivalis, that can invade human retinal-pigment epithelial cells. The study reveals significant molecular links between CP and AMD.
Research finds that people are 5% more likely to miss NHS hospital outpatient appointments following the clock change in spring. The study, published in Chronobiology International, analyzed over 2 million appointments in Scotland from 2005 to 2010, revealing a significant increase in missed appointments after the clocks go forward.
A new study reveals that non-specific bystander T cells can counteract type 1 diabetes by limiting access to beta cells and interfering with inflammatory signals. This challenge to the traditional notion of regulatory T cells' anti-inflammatory effects opens up new avenues for treatment.
Scientists from FAU, University of Leicester and University of Vigo have proven that the kinetic energy of particles in granular gases can increase temporarily due to surface adhesion. This effect contradicts Haff's law, which states that granular temperature decreases in closed systems.
Researchers have developed a stretchable ultrasound patch that can image internal imperfections on curved surfaces without water or gel. The device uses an island-bridge structure and piezoelectric transducers to produce ultrasound waves, enabling real-time imaging and videoing of complex structures.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison used Hubble Space Telescope to analyze Leading Arm of Magellanic Stream, identifying it as coming from Small Magellanic Cloud. The study helps refine models of galaxy orbit and formation, shedding light on mysterious gas clouds surrounding Milky Way.
A study of 2,500 participants found that deployment to combat units was associated with lower odds of e-cigarette use. Soldiers who perceived e-cigarettes as less harmful had a 61% reduction in risk of using them.
Researchers identify SpdC as a key player in controlling S. aureus virulence, biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance; Inhibiting SpdC may offer new approach to combating S. aureus infections.
Scientists at Bar-Ilan University discovered that learning in the brain occurs in dendrites, not just synapses. This new finding suggests a faster and more efficient learning process, with implications for current treatments and machine learning algorithms.
Scientists at Griffith University have unveiled a highly accurate technique for measuring electrical forces using a single atom as a sensor, with sensitivity down to 100 zeptoNewtons. This achievement allows for the investigation of surface phenomena and has potential applications in quantum computing and medical research.
Researchers at Université de Limoges developed a compact, optical fibre-based laser source that rivals synchrotron facilities in performing infrared spectromicroscopy. This breakthrough enables accurate chemical imaging of biological tissues with high precision, paving the way for early cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers refuted long-held beliefs about sodium's impact on solar cell production by demonstrating its dual effect: homogenizing elements within grains but slowing inter-grain homogenization. This finding could lead to improved manufacturing processes and new insights into solar cell production.
Researchers have created new metal alloy rods with laquosuperelasticity, capable of restoring shape against large deformation, and high corrosion resistance. These alloys offer promise as biomaterials for bone implants and potential solutions to scoliosis treatment
Tropical Cyclone 16P has developed over the Arafura Sea, located between Australia's north coast and New Guinea. The storm is moving east at 4.6 mph and is expected to intensify as it enters the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Scientists at Rice University have developed a method to produce strong, lightweight graphite pellets without the need for high-temperature processing. The pellets exhibit good conductivity and stability in various conditions, making them suitable for applications such as conducting cables and electrodes.
Researchers at New York University have found that strong signals can be transmitted across many areas of the brain using a balanced large-scale neural circuit mechanism. This discovery may help explain how conscious information processing is achieved.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham are developing a new neonatal transport system to reduce vibration and stress on premature babies. The system aims to improve neurological outcomes and long-term quality of life for these vulnerable infants.
Researchers at Tufts University developed miniaturized sensors that can detect nutrients, chemicals and physiological states, offering a non-invasive way to monitor dietary intake. The sensors, with a footprint of 2mm x 2mm, transmit data wirelessly in response to radiofrequency signals.
A study by the University of Toronto Rotman School of Management found that low confidence can lead to selfish behavior, but also increased generosity when public choices are made. In contrast, high confidence participants tend to be more generous in their choices.
Scientists have developed a new type of high-capacity optical disk that can hold data securely for over 600 years, addressing the world's data storage problem. The technology enables a significant leap in capacity and lifespan compared to traditional hard disk drives.
Hemodialysis patients are vulnerable to life-threatening infections that can spread to others in dialysis facilities. A series of articles highlights the urgency of preventing these infections, emphasizing the need for evidence-based practices and leadership from nephrologists.
A recent study at Lake Abert found that low water levels and high salinity affect the availability of brine shrimp, a key food source for waterbirds. The lake's surface area has decreased by nearly 200 football fields since 1986, resulting in a 82% decline in bird sightings during periods of low water and high salinity.
A 6-inch human skeleton discovered in Chile had high-quality DNA suitable for modern sequencing technology, revealing insights into its ancestry and phenotype. Multiple genetic mutations linked to diseases such as dwarfism and musculoskeletal abnormalities were found.
A calorie restriction trial in healthy adults aged 21-50 found significant improvements in biomarkers of aging, including reduced oxidative stress and slowed metabolic rate. The study suggests that sustained calorie restriction may help decrease risk for chronic disease and prolong life.
Researchers have successfully created amorphous metal alloys using additive manufacturing, overcoming the critical casting thickness limitation. The technique enables production of metallic glasses on larger scales, with potential applications in high-performance materials for electric motors, wear resistance, and structural integrity.
Tropical Cyclone Marcus, a Category 4 hurricane, was monitored by NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite. The storm's weakening was attributed to warming cloud top temperatures and increasing vertical wind shear.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a fabric that converts kinetic energy into electric power. The textile generates electricity when stretched or exposed to pressure, and can currently light an LED, send wireless signals, or drive small electric units.
A new study suggests that certified logging operations can protect jaguars and other large wildlife species. Camera trap surveys in Guatemala and Peru found high jaguar densities in managed concessions, with an average of 1.5 to 4.5 jaguars per 100 square kilometers.
The study of a two-billion-year-old salt mineral deposit provides new insights into the Earth's atmosphere following the Great Oxidation Event. Marine sulfate concentrations were significantly lower in ancient oceans, indicating large amounts of oxygen reacted with sulfur, accumulating in the oceans as sulfates.
The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft has approved 14 new Priority Programmes for 2019, covering a range of disciplines and topics including spatial genome architecture, Perovskite semiconductors, and digital image. The programmes will receive approximately €80 million in funding over three years.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine are conducting trials to test the safety and efficacy of an H7N9 influenza vaccine. The vaccine, developed by Sanofi Pasteur, will be evaluated in healthy volunteers and elderly adults, with different dosages and adjuvant combinations tested.
The MedSeq Project analyzed costs six months after genetic information was returned to physicians and their patients. Sequencing did identify health-relevant genetic information, but downstream costs were similar between sequenced and unsequenced patients.
Researchers found that the microbes surrounding plant roots prefer a diet rich in organic acids, with sugars being preferred early in the growth cycle. This discovery could help scientists identify ways to enhance soil microbiome for improved carbon storage and plant productivity.
A study of beetles shows that those with physical impairments spend more time feeding their young, sacrificing resources to care for their offspring. The researchers suggest that the insects may respond by expecting not to breed again and expending more resources to guarantee their young's survival.
A joint study by the University of Exeter and Bayer AG has identified key enzymes in honeybees and bumblebees responsible for their sensitivity to neonicotinoid pesticides. This breakthrough provides valuable tools to screen new pesticides early in development, potentially avoiding costly restrictions on their use.
A systematic review of eight clinical trials found that certain nutrient supplements, such as Taurine and antioxidants, may improve mental health in young people with psychosis. The review suggests that these nutrients could be effective 'add-on' treatments when used alongside standard treatment.
Researchers found oral pathogens in colon specimens of polybacterial-infected mice, affecting the microbiome and NO synthesis. The study suggests a link between periodontitis and colon health, potentially impacting motility and antioxidant defenses.
Salk scientists discover that maternal behavior changes brain cells in mice by altering L1 gene copy number and methylation. This correlation suggests a unique role for the jumping gene L1 in shaping brain development.
A new study using fMRI scans found that Transcendental Meditation practice leads to a unique state of restful alertness, characterized by increased blood flow to frontal areas of the brain and decreased activity in pons and cerebellum. This finding supports the technique's claim to induce a deeply rested yet alert mental state.
A recent study reveals that differences in metabolic enzyme activity break down pesticide chemicals, explaining bee sensitivity. Researchers found specific enzymes like CYP9Q3 and CYP9Q4 responsible for tolerance to thiacloprid and imidacloprid, respectively.
Women with small, low-grade tumors and a genetic profile at low risk of metastasis have only a 1.4% chance of locoregional recurrence within five years. Breast conservation surgery is as effective as mastectomy in reducing the risk of recurrence.
Researchers discovered a glitch in muscle-blood vessel communication that causes vascular aging, which they reversed using NAD+ and SIRT1-boosting treatments. The findings have implications for therapies targeting humans with vascular aging disorders.
Researchers have developed a novel solution to detect, locate, and quantify methane leaks using a mobile dual-comb device. The system combines NIST's frequency comb technology with an array of corner cube retroreflectors for continuous monitoring over large areas.
A new computational method, Lancet, enables more accurate identification of rare gene mutations in cancer cells by jointly analyzing tumor and normal cell genomes. This approach outperforms existing methods in detecting somatic variants with higher accuracy and sensitivity.
Researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering have made a discovery that can flag the barest presence of viruses or proteins, as well as detect airborne chemical warfare agents. The breakthrough enables biosensors tailored to specific applications, from wearable sensors for soldiers to nanoparticle drug uptake.
A study found that bacterial composition differs in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, promoting immune suppression and tumor growth. Eliminating certain bacteria slowed cancer progression and increased T-cell infiltration into tumors.
Researchers have discovered a key link between RNA cytosine methylation, methyltransferases, and chromatin structure in regulating 5-azacytidine response in leukemia. The study's findings offer new insights into predicting drug resistance and potential therapeutic targets for patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myelo...
A recent study found that up to 40% of direct-to-consumer genetic tests provide incorrect readings in raw data. The findings highlight the importance of seeking clinical test validation to ensure accurate patient care.
Researchers develop an optimized approach combining AP-MS and BioID to identify protein-protein interactions, stoichiometries, and molecular context. The method enables higher resolution assignment of proteins to cellular or subcellular locations.
Researchers at Tohoku University have found that microorganisms with cilia can escape from dead ends using a swimming motion. This ability enables them to survive in intricate environments where other organisms may not be able to thrive.